There’s a certain undeniable allure to piloting a Mercedes-Benz SL roadster for an extended period. It speaks of luxury, performance, and a lifestyle that many aspire to. These opulent two-seat sports convertibles aren’t just about getting from point A to point B; they’re about the journey itself, the experience, and the statement they make.
But is there more to the Mercedes-Benz SL than just pure indulgence? Its legacy stretches back an impressive six decades, starting with the iconic 300SL hardtop in 1954 and the elegant 190SL convertible shortly after. This enduring appeal suggests a deeper substance beneath the surface glamour.
After spending four months behind the wheel of the freshly updated Mercedes-Benz SL 400, it’s time to delve into what makes this car tick, and whether it truly lives up to the legendary SL nameplate.
The Heart of the Matter: Performance and Fuel Economy
The model at hand is the SL 400, a recent recipient of a facelift and a significant powertrain upgrade. Staying true to Mercedes-Benz’s penchant for numerical badge ambiguity, the SL 400 boasts a potent 3.0-liter direct-injection V6 engine, force-fed by twin turbochargers. This powerplant delivers a healthy 245kW (333 horsepower) and a robust 480Nm (354 lb-ft) of torque, with the latter readily available from a low 1600rpm.
In an era where performance and efficiency are increasingly intertwined, the SL 400 promises a compelling blend of both. Mercedes-Benz claims a 0-100km/h (0-62 mph) sprint time of just 5.2 seconds, coupled with a frugal combined fuel consumption figure of 7.3L/100km (32.2 mpg US).
However, real-world driving often paints a different picture. My daily commute, a short 4km (2.5 mile) jaunt, yielded a rather thirsty average closer to 20L/100km (11.8 mpg US). This, admittedly, is in demanding conditions with frequent stops and starts over a mere 12-minute duration.
Longer freeway journeys, such as airport runs, proved more economical, with the trip computer reporting a more palatable 10.9L/100km (21.6 mpg US). Yet, even this figure falls short of the official combined rating.
Over the initial weeks and 454km (282 miles) of driving, the overall average settled at a mediocre 11.9L/100km (19.8 mpg US). A planned trip to Phillip Island should provide a better opportunity to assess its long-distance fuel efficiency and hopefully balance out the predominantly urban driving thus far.
It’s worth acknowledging that the driver plays a role in fuel consumption, and the SL 400‘s engine is undeniably enticing. It emits a satisfyingly deep and resonant sound, akin to a distant rumble, with a subtle crackle on lift-off in Sport mode – a feature that, while appreciated, could be more pronounced for true enthusiast ears.
Image: Front three-quarter view of the Mercedes-Benz SL400 showcasing its sleek design and convertible top.
Entry-Level Luxury, Premium Appeal
The Mercedes-Benz SL 400 is positioned as the “entry-level” model within the SL range, serving as the gateway to a price ladder that culminates in the formidable twin-turbocharged V12 Mercedes-AMG SL 65. While the SL 400‘s starting price of $229,000 AUD (approximately $150,000 USD at the time of writing) is considerably less than half of the SL 65’s $481,000 AUD tag, the visual distinctions are surprisingly subtle. It appears that even those opting for the more “accessible” end of the SL spectrum still desire to make a visual statement.
This particular test vehicle benefits from the optional $9,000 AUD Designo package, enhancing its aesthetics with AMG body styling elements, 19-inch alloy wheels, and a striking black and white leather interior.
Ride, Handling, and Everyday Practicalities
Despite riding on substantial 19-inch wheels, the SL 400 delivers a commendable ride quality, particularly on well-maintained roads. While minor shudders are perceptible over road imperfections, especially with the roof down, they are fleeting and significantly improved compared to previous, heavier SL generations. This current SL 400, weighing in at a relatively svelte 1655kg (3648 lbs), feels notably more composed and grounded.
The steering is a pleasant revelation – quick and responsive, enabling the large roadster to confidently pivot into corners. This agility is further emphasized by the driver’s seating position, set well back within the wheelbase. While outright road feel might be slightly muted, navigating urban environments like school zones and shopping centers remains effortless.
One unexpected challenge arose with the SL 400‘s long doors. They demand considerable space for comfortable ingress and egress, often proving cumbersome in typical Australian parking spaces, which are not known for their generosity. This necessitates a somewhat ungainly “vertical limbo” maneuver to extract oneself from the vehicle in tighter spots.
Operating the retractable hardtop also presented a minor inconvenience. The roof mechanism is only operational at speeds below 15km/h (9 mph), and in practice, it feels closer to 10km/h (6 mph). This necessitates incorporating roof operation into the vehicle start-up procedure, adding approximately 15 seconds to each departure – a seemingly small delay that can feel surprisingly protracted in our fast-paced world.
Image: Side profile of the Mercedes-Benz SL400 with the roof retracted, highlighting its elegant lines and open-top configuration.
Roofless Thunder: The Auditory Experience
With the folding hardtop stowed away, the SL 400 offers an enhanced opportunity to appreciate its engine’s soundtrack. The twin-turbo V6 strives for a harmonious balance between sporty and luxurious notes, largely succeeding in its endeavor.
While not as overtly raucous as some performance-focused vehicles, the SL 400 delivers a pleasing auditory experience, particularly with the roof down, adding another layer to the overall driving enjoyment.
Value Beyond the Price Tag
The concept of “value” in the realm of luxury cars is often debated. While a Mercedes-Benz SL 400 may not offer quantifiable value in the same way as a budget-friendly car, it presents a compelling proposition to its target demographic.
Consider the subtle yet significant details: the ambient cabin lighting, the automatic engagement of park mode when the door is opened, the umbrella-sized door pockets, the electric retractable hardtop, the hands-free boot opening, and the heated and cooled seats with sun-reflecting leather. These are just a few examples of the thoughtful features that elevate the ownership experience.
Furthermore, the SL 400 incorporates advanced technologies such as voice-controlled entertainment and autonomous driving assistance systems, representing significant investments in research and development. These features, along with the refined cabin, compliant ride, effortless performance, and evocative exhaust note, contribute to a holistic sense of luxury and sophistication.
Image: Rear three-quarter view of the Mercedes-Benz SL400 Convertible emphasizing its sporty stance and taillight design.
While the SL 400 may not adhere to conventional notions of value for money, it delivers exceptional value in terms of luxury, driving pleasure, and the intangible aspects of owning a prestigious Mercedes-Benz roadster. It’s about the holistic experience and the subtle enhancements that enrich daily driving.
Image: Interior view of the Mercedes-Benz SL400 showcasing the luxurious black and white leather interior and dashboard layout.
Final Verdict: Sumptuous Motoring
The Mercedes-Benz SL 400 is, at its core, an impressive and invigorating driving machine. It blends a comfortable ride with engaging handling, effortless acceleration, and a pleasing engine note. Throughout the ownership experience, it consistently pampers and spoils, exceeding the capabilities of most cars on the market.
While minor imperfections exist, they are easily overshadowed by the overall package. For those who prioritize a sumptuous and refined motoring experience over outright performance, the Mercedes-Benz SL 400 is undoubtedly worth considering. It’s a car that encourages you to savor the journey, not just rush to the destination. You might just find yourself falling in love with the indulgent world of the Mercedes-Benz SL roadster.
